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Jurgen Klopp does not want his impending exit to distract from Borussia Dortmund's need for points against Paderborn.

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AFP

Written ByMatthew Rogerson

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Following the confirmation of his departure at the end of the
season, Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp does not want the
visit of Paderborn to be the start of a "farewell tour".

Dortmund confirmed on Wednesday they had agreed to an early
termination of Klopp's contract at Signal Iduna Park after seven
hugely successful years.

Two Bundesliga titles, a DFB-Pokal crown and a run to the UEFA
Champions League final helped cement Klopp's position as a
favourite at the club.

However, this season has not gone to plan for Klopp's men, who
sit in the bottom half following back-to-back league defeats.

Dortmund remain on course for Pokal success but Klopp is eager
not to take focus off the league campaign, with visitors Paderborn
in need of points to ensure their survival in the Bundesliga.

"We have got eight important games to play. It would not be
appropriate for me and my coaching team to celebrate because it is
not the right time for that. I am not on a farewell tour," he told
reporters.

"We have got eight games to go and we will say goodbye if the
time is right. I do not expect anything [from the fans] and I also
do not need anything.

"The fans just need to come to the stadium and cheer for their
team from the first to the last minute.

"I have told the team. Because of the timetable there was no
other time to tell them. But no one applauded. This is maybe the
best message.

"I have to say that they are allowed to laugh on the pitch even
if camera teams are there. Even if there is the possibility the
media are writing 'Klopp is retiring and player X laughs in
training'. It is not necessary."